Reading as a form of self-education becomes more important the older a person gets. After college, reading becomes the primary form of self-education.

One of the best ways for a job applicant to elevate himself to the #1 position is to maintain a blog with book reviews and articles on topics related to the field the person wants to work in.

Getting good grades in college shows that the applicant has read in his field, but maintaining the blog shows that it is likely that he will continue to read widely and educate himself. It's an education with no tuition for the employee and no cost to the employer: a win for both.

Since one of the keys to self-funding is to earn more and spend less, preferably in a career where you can find fulfillment through service, it makes sense to make the most of your opportunities when applying for jobs.